Anesthetic techniques: focus on lumbar erector spinae plane block

Abstract

Defined in the last decade, erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is one of the more frequently used interfacial plans, and it has been the most discussed block among the recently defined techniques. Lumbar ESPB administered at lumbar levels is relatively novel and is a new horizon for regional anesthesia and pain practice. In this article, we aim to explain and introduce different approaches and explain the possible mechanism of action of lumbar ESPB. The objective of this review is to analyze the case reports, clinical and cadaveric studies about lumbar ESPB that have been published to date. We performed a search in "Pubmed" and "Google Scholar" database. After a selection of the relevant studies, 59 articles were found eligible and were included in this review. While we believe that lumbar ESPB is reliable and easy, we suggest that its efficacy and indications should be verified with anatomical and clinical studies, and its safety should be confirmed with pharmacokinetic studies. Moreover, the possibility of complications must be considered.